Through the careful execution of survey research focused on the issues concerning the community, the voice of the public becomes a powerful factor in shaping public policy and aiding in any decision-making process.

The power of public opinion is an important mechanism in the decision-making process and the Public Opinion Research Laboratory at the University of North Florida is dedicated to conducting studies that contribute to the knowledge and understanding of salient social, economic, business, and health issues.

The Public Opinion Research Laboratory (PORL) is a full-service survey research facility that provides tailored research to fulfill each client's individual needs. Since its opening in March of 2001, the PORL has conducted over 90 public opinion surveys and its services include consulting, questionnaire design, population sampling, data collection, analysis, and a full, detailed report of charted results as well as a written description of findings. As of July 27, 2015, PORL is a Charter Member of the American Association for Public Opinion Research Transparency Initiative.